A new study suggests that fiber found in oats and mushrooms could help reduce levels of dangerous forever chemicals from the human body, offering a promising dietary approach to reducing toxic buildup.
According to a study published by Environmental Health and conducted by researchers at Boston University, participants who took beta-glucan fiber before meals saw an average eight percent drop in PFAS in the body over four weeks.
PFAS—per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—are synthetic chemicals widely used in nonstick cookware, food packaging, and firefighting foam. These substances resist breaking down, causing them to build up in soil, water, and human tissue for decades. They’ve been linked to serious health problems including organ failure, fertility issues, obesity, and multiple cancers.
“Despite the growing concerns about the toxicity of PFAS, specific interventions to reduce PFAS levels in the body are limited,” the Boston University team wrote.
The study tracked 72 adult men aged 18 to 65. Participants were split into two groups: one took oat beta-glucan supplements three times daily, while the other received a rice-based placebo. Blood tests revealed that those taking the oat fiber had measurable reductions in PFOA and PFOS, two of the most harmful types of forever chemicals.
Researchers believe the fiber may work by forming a gel in the gut that binds bile acids. Since PFAS attach to bile for absorption, blocking reabsorption and boosting excretion could help remove PFAS naturally.
Oat beta-glucan is a soluble fiber found in oats, mushrooms, and seeds. It’s already known for supporting heart health and digestive regularity, but its role in reducing PFAS in the body adds a new dimension to its benefits.
Still, the study authors note that not all types of fiber may have this effect, and long-term research is needed. PFAS can remain in the human body for years, meaning more extended trials are required to assess lasting impacts.
The findings come as concern grows over widespread PFAS exposure in the U.S. A separate warning has suggested over 100 million Americans may be drinking tap water contaminated with these chemicals.
Despite the positive early findings, fiber intake across the U.S. remains low. Nearly 90% of Americans fall short of the daily recommended 22 to 34 grams, raising their risk of constipation and related health issues such as colon cancer.
Besides potentially helping to remove PFAS naturally, dietary fiber also shortens the time waste stays in the colon. This may help lower exposure to harmful contaminants that trigger abnormal cell growth.
While this study offers new insight, the researchers stress that more trials are essential to confirm the best types and amounts of fiber for long-term impact on PFAS in the body.
Article updated 4 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
